From Suspicion to Strategic Alliance: US Presidents Who Liked and Disliked India

Over the decades, US-India relations have been a complex diplomatic dance, shaped by the varying approaches of US presidents. Some have embraced India as a strategic partner, while others have maintained a more cautious attitude. Presidents like Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama have laid the foundation for a close partnership, recognizing India’s potential as a significant global player. Meanwhile, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Jimmy Carter approached India with skepticism, influenced by Cold War rivalries and nuclear concerns. This historical overview of US-India relations sheds light on how presidential priorities and worldviews have alternated between collaboration and caution.

Bill Clinton: Establishing a strategic partnership

Bill Clinton’s presidency marked a major turning point in US-India relations. His historic visit to India in 2000 symbolized a milestone in the relationship after years of diplomatic tensions following India’s 1998 nuclear tests that led to US sanctions. Clinton actively sought to mend ties, working to lift sanctions and establish the Indo-US Science and Technology Forum, which encouraged collaboration on technology, health, and the environment. Clinton’s diplomatic approach laid the foundation for a strategic partnership, moving beyond Cold War tensions and positioning India as a key ally. His administration’s outreach efforts helped reset the relationship, paving the way for future cooperation.

George W. Bush: Architect of the US-India nuclear deal

George W. Bush’s presidency saw unprecedented support for India, notably through the US-India Civilian Nuclear Deal. The Bush administration negotiated this transformative agreement, allowing India access to civilian nuclear technology without being a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. This pivotal shift in US policy marked a strategic alignment, strengthening economic and defense ties between the two countries. The agreement raised India’s standing in American foreign policy circles, encouraging closer military cooperation and economic exchanges. Bush’s approach recognized India as a major player in global affairs and established a long-lasting foundation for future US-India relations.

Barack Obama: Strengthening the Partnership

Barack Obama continued to build on the legacy of his predecessors, taking the US-India partnership to new heights. Making two official visits to India, Obama openly supported India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, marking a bold diplomatic move. His administration has emphasized collaboration on crucial global issues, from climate change to defense. Obama described the US-India relationship as one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century, stressing its importance for a stable Indo-Pacific region amid a rising China. His administration’s action strengthened India’s role as a key US ally, expanding the framework established by Clinton and Bush.

Lyndon B. Johnson: Cold War Realities and Skepticism

Lyndon B. Johnson’s approach to US-India relations was defined by the complex geopolitics of the Cold War. During his presidency, US foreign policy in South Asia tilted towards Pakistan, particularly during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. Johnson viewed India’s non-aligned position with suspicion, worried about its close ties to the Soviet Union. While extending food aid to India during severe droughts, Johnson did so reluctantly, illustrating a cautious approach. His administration’s favoritism towards Pakistan limited the potential for warm relations with India, reinforcing a perception of Cold War-era skepticism.

Richard Nixon: Hostility and Tension

Richard Nixon’s presidency was marked by open hostility towards India, underpinned by both political disagreements and personal animosity. This tension came to a head during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, when the Nixon administration openly favored Pakistan despite documented human rights abuses. The recently declassified tapes reveal Nixon’s derogatory remarks about India, particularly towards Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. He even suggested that India’s challenges, such as population growth, could be “solved” through “mass starvation”. This era saw some of the most intense diplomatic friction between the two countries, casting a shadow that lingered over US-India relations for years.

Jimmy Carter: Nuclear Concerns and Strained Relations

Jimmy Carter came into office with the intention of improving US-India relations, but his tenure was marred by challenges stemming from India’s nuclear ambitions. Carter advocated strongly for nuclear non-proliferation and pushed India to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, a position that did not sit well with Indian leaders who saw it as an interference with their sovereignty. In addition, Carter’s favorable opinion of Pakistan added to the tension, leading to strained perceptions of his administration in New Delhi. Despite Carter’s efforts, his nuclear stance remained a stumbling block, compounding the challenges of US-India relations during his presidency.

The Evolution of US-India Relations: From Skepticism to Strategic Alliance

From Clinton, Bush and Obama to Johnson, Nixon and Carter, the actions of US presidents have charted a dynamic course in US-India relations. Clinton’s diplomacy laid the groundwork, while Bush’s nuclear deal and Obama’s expanded partnership underscored India’s strategic importance as a US ally. Meanwhile, the approaches of Johnson, Nixon, and Carter reflect the challenges of navigating Cold War politics, nuclear concerns, and personal biases. The relationship, shaped by these highs and lows, is now a solid partnership, with both nations recognizing their shared values ​​and shared goals in the global arena.